SASOLBURG – A delegation from AfriForum and the Metsimaholo Local Municipality last week visited four sites in the town where high-density housing was being erected illegally.

None of the sites had approved land use rights or building plans.

The latest visits aimed to enforce the municipality’s bylaws and the relevant legislation in this regard.

Although the delegation was unable to gain access to one of the properties, the owners of the other three developments were formally notified by the municipality to halt construction.

In cases where building work was still ongoing, AfriForum and municipal officials immediately put a stop to it. Where possible, the electricity supply was also cut off.

The owners were given 30 days to comply with the municipality’s bylaws and relevant legislation.

“AfriForum continues to put pressure on the municipality to handle this matter with the necessary urgency to protect the integrity of the community,” said Alta Pretorius, AfriForum’s district coordinator for Mooirivier.

“There is a serious risk of overpopulation, which will place additional pressure on the area’s existing water, sewage, and electricity infrastructure. At one of the developments, 11 people are already living there. If the other developments are allowed to continue illegally, the burden on infrastructure will only increase.”

AfriForum will continue to act as a watchdog, provide the local government with the necessary support, and ensure that the municipality enforces the applicable laws and its own bylaws.

The community is encouraged to get involved with this AfriForum branch to make a meaningful difference.

Contact Johan Hayward on 073 885 1365 to join the neighbourhood watch, or contact Braam Muller on 076 125 7773 to get involved in the branch’s projects.